Hardcore punkers AFI return with their brand new album Crash Love. Following up 2006's Decemberunderground, the Ukiah, California group have been making music together since the early 90's as A Fire Inside, which is what AFI stands for. Finally making it big back in 2003 with their Sing the Sorrow LP, the group continue to raise the bear both lyrically and sonically on their latest release.

The leadoff track, "Torch Song" is an eerie and melodic track, with lead vocalist Davey Havok's smooth yet tortured vocals adding a moody edge to the song as it approaches its climax. "Beautiful Thieves" is a melodic and straightforward opus that listeners who might not be familiar with AFI's style of music will grow to appreciate. "Too Shy To Scream" is a thumping and power packed tune that best higlights drummer Adam Carson's terrific percussion skills. "Veronica Sawyer Smokes" brings it down a notch with its mid tempo guitar riffs and Davey's vocals adding a unique touch to the song.

The album's first single, "Medicate" is my favorite track off the album. With its fast paced, frenetic nature setting the tone for the track, and best showcases guitarist Jade Puget's marvelous guitar skills, and makes the song listener accessible to those who might not regularly listen to this genre of music.

Other higlights from the album include "Sacrilege", a mid tempo rocker that varies the degree of kinetic energy that was found in the previous tracks, thus adding an element of variety to the mix as well. "Cold Hands", a melodic and powerful song that best exemplifies what AFI is all about, dark yet melodic songs with lyrics that speak to a wide variety of listeners, and gives them hope and strength in whatever challenges they may encounter in their everyday lives.

Overall, a solid effort from a very unique and well established band. This band was formed back in 1991 and have slowly built a loyal following since. And it looks like that following will continue to expand with this album, as they have crafted a well harmonized effort that showcases the style of music that they have worked so hard to mold and deliver over the years.

                                                                                                                                                 Album Score: 4/5

Track Listing:

1. Torch Song


2. Beautiful Thieves


3. End Transmission


4. Too Shy To Scream


5. Veronica Sawyer Smokes


6. Okay, I Feel Better Now


7. Medicate


8. I Am Trying Very Hard to Be Here


9. Sacrilege


10. Darling, I Want to Destroy You


11. Cold Hands


12. It Was Mine